THE BEACON.

By Robert Graves

The silent shepherdess,

She of my vows,

Here with me exchanging love

Under dim boughs.

Shines on our mysteries

A sudden spark —

“Dout the candle, glow-worm,

Let all be dark.

“The birds have sung their last notes,

The Sun's to bed,

Glow-worm, dout your candle.”

The glow-worm said:

“I also am a lover;

The lamp I display

Is beacon for my true love

Wandering astray.

“Through the thick bushes

And the grass comes she

With a heartload of longing

And love for me.

“Sir, enjoy your fancy,

But spare me harm,

A lover is a lover,

Though but a worm.”